HC Deb 17 August 1857 vol 147 cc1735-6
MR. DISRAELI

I wish, Sir, to make an inquiry of Her Majesty's Government respecting an Act of the Legislative Council of India, which has been lately passed (I believe it is number fifteen of the year 1857), restricting the liberty of the press in the dominions of the East India Company. I wish to know of the right hon. Gentleman the President of the Board of Control, whether he would object before we separate to place a copy of that Act on the table?

MR. VERNON SMITH

Sir, I have not the least objection to place a copy of that Act on the table. I may say that it has been only passed for one year.

MR. DISRAELI

There are two other documents which I wish to have laid on the Table of the House, and if there is no objection to produce them, I will make a Motion for their production. One is a copy of the Despatch of the Governor General of India, explaining the reason why he has extended this law of restriction to the loyal European subjects of Her Majesty, as well as to the Natives; and I also wish for a copy of a Memorial addressed to the Governor General on the subject by the European population. If there is no objection to the production of these papers I will give notice of a Motion for their production as unopposed returns.

MR. VERNON SMITH

I have no objection to the production of such papers as we have. The Despatch of the Governor General is in the possession of the Government, but I am not sure that we have the Memorial; if we have it, it shall be produced.

MR. AYRTON

Will there be any objection to lay on the table a copy of the Friend of India, for which a warning was given to that journal?

MR. VERNON SMITH

If the hon. Gentleman will communicate with me in private, I will endeavour to meet his wishes.